Future Technology Pathways Launches with Hands-On Campus Experience at GovState
Bloom High School students visited Governors State University for the opening day of Future Technology Pathways, participating in hands-on technology demonstrations, exploring campus facilities, and engaging with robotics, drones, 3D printing, and digital design.
Program Gallery
Highlights from the opening day of Future Technology Pathways, where students experienced university-level learning spaces, hands-on demonstrations, and conversations about technology pathways.
Governors State University welcomed Bloom High School students to campus for the launch of Future Technology Pathways, a technology outreach initiative designed to introduce students to computing, hands-on learning, and new technology experiences.
The opening day gave students a first look at the program and a meaningful introduction to the university environment. Throughout the visit, students explored technology through demonstrations, presentations, and interactive activities that connected classroom learning to real tools, creative projects, and emerging technologies.
A Strong Start to the Partnership
Future Technology Pathways is built through a partnership between Governors State University and Bloom High School. The program brings high school students into contact with university faculty, staff, and student leaders while helping them see technology as something they can explore, understand, and create.
The first session set the tone for the full program. Students were introduced to a welcoming campus setting and had the opportunity to see how technology connects to design, robotics, computing, engineering, media, and problem solving.
Technology Students Could See and Experience
During the visit, students engaged with demonstrations involving drones, robotics, 3D printing, computer graphics, digital design, and game-based technology. These experiences helped make technology feel active, creative, and approachable.
Students saw how technology can be used to design, build, create, and solve problems. Through demonstrations and conversations with university students, participants were able to explore different ways technology is used both in the classroom and in everyday life.
Learning in a College Environment
For many students, the visit was also an opportunity to experience a university learning environment firsthand. Students toured campus facilities, including the Digital Learning and Media Design Center, and gained a closer look at the spaces where university students learn, collaborate, and create.
Throughout the day, students were encouraged to ask questions, participate in activities, and engage with presenters in an environment that promoted curiosity and exploration.
Student Leadership and Mentorship
The GovState ACM Student Chapter will support Future Technology Pathways throughout the program by helping lead workshops and mentor students as they explore technology topics. This student-led model is an important part of the experience because it allows high school students to learn from college students who can share their experiences and insights.
Through this approach, participants are introduced to technology skills while also building connections with student leaders who help create a welcoming and supportive learning environment.
Building Momentum for the Days Ahead
The launch event created a strong foundation for the remaining workshops in the program. Future Technology Pathways will continue with sessions focused on technology foundations, networking, information technology support, coding and game design, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence.
By starting with an engaging campus experience, the program helped students see that technology is hands-on, creative, and accessible. The opening day reflected the larger purpose of Future Technology Pathways: to expand access, build confidence, and help students discover new possibilities through technology.